Gave up exercising midway? Here’s how to start again and keep going.
There could be a number of reasons one gives up on working out. Busy schedule, the workout isn't helping, it's too boring, it's too tough or the thought of getting fit being impossible.
Whatever the reason, there are ways to get back on track and into a routine that you actually look forward to!
Firstly, know that there is a large variety of workouts out there!
Picking something that charges you up is key to ensuring a long lasting relationship with your exercise regime.
Your workout should include a form of each of the following:
Options: walking, jogging, running, cycling, swimming, aerobics classes, active sport like football, tennis, badminton.
2. Resistance/strength training exercises
Options: Weight training, resistance bands, stability balls, body weight bearing exercises, or any other resistance equipment.
3. Flexibility exercises
Options: Yoga or stretching exercises
There are also hybrid workouts that blend cardio, strength and flexibility in one, like Power Yoga, Tabata Training, High Intensity Interval Training, Boot Camp or Cross Fit.
These work great for those who are short on time and cannot do several different workouts in the week.
Choose the right setting
If you are a social person, group workouts, a crowded gym or sports are more likely to get you going.
For a person who likes alone time, steer clear of these and workout on your own or with a personal trainer if you need one.
If outdoors is your scene, try Boot Camp, or a run in the park, or a game of football perhaps?
For peace and solitude, a yoga class is your thing.
Get a motivating trainer
A good, lively and inspiring trainer that really knows how to get you going will keep you on your toes and help you stick to your workout schedule.
A slack, dull one is sure going to make you want to give up.
Your exercise regime should fit into your daily schedule smoothly
This is crucial if you want to be regular and make fitness a part your lifestyle.
If the workout time upsets any of your other plans; you are more likely to give it up.
Try to carve out time elsewhere so that nothing stands in its way.
Set a realistic goal
2-3 kilo weight loss in a month is realistic and can be done; 10 kilo's is not!
Starting a bench press, lifting 100 kilo's is not!
If your aim is too high, you will not be able to reach it and that may cause you to give up too soon.
Be aware of your body's capacity and know what is good for it and what's dangerous.
Respect your body first and set a sensible goal.
Be patient
The slower your body changes, the more likely it is to maintain the acquired shape.
People tend to give up all too soon when they see no difference in 2 weeks.
The body takes time to learn the exercise, then apply the knowledge; and only then can it work hard at the exercise.
Give yourself a month to first start noticing changes.
You are what you eat
Exercise forms 50 per cent of the pathway to your goal and must be accompanied by the other 50 per cent of good, healthy eating.
Eat clean! Put those foods into your body that it needs. Foods that give it top quality fuel. Local fresh vegetables, fruits, lentils, pulses, grains, poultry and fish.
Eating well will give your body the tools to get you into good shape.
And when you get tempted to give up again....
....Address these same points. And if that doesn't work, try switching your workouts.
Do something different.
If you were walking, try swimming.
If you were bored of yoga, try a body tone class.
Just remember to keep going!
Lead image used for representational purposes only.
Photograph: Earl McGehee/ Creative Commons
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